Visual analysis of the Mummy mask

Sculptures are a form of visual art. They are mainly made by two or three-dimensional representative or abstract shapes by carving wood, stone, ceramics, clay, papier- mache, wax, plaster or metal. The sculptures are brought into existence using various methods such as carving, casting and shaping techniques and even assembling the pieces as a form of artistry. The designs of these sculptures after being created usually end up being as freestanding objects, as tableaux which excites the spectators or as reliefs on the surfaces. Sculptures are of great importance in regards to history, especially to the Greeks and Egyptians. The sculptures have been used by humans for many reasons such as spiritual purposes,                                        decoration and also as a reminder of history. The statue in this quest is a funerary mask, referred to as The Mummy Mask, which is of the Egyptian origin. This paper will focus on the analysis of the visual elements of the mummy mask.

 

This artwork is a form of sculpture that was round in shape. The shape enabled it in such a way that it could be viewed from different dimensions. The other importance of the shape was that it could be placed as a relief on the surfaces. It was made of cartonnage, which consisted of layers of papyrus layers and linen stiffened with plaster bringing about the smooth effect. The primary importance was that it made it more comfortable in making the mask resemble the body that was to be inside it. The cartonnage was the most suitable material during the First Intermediate  Period in the Roman Era. The mask was had a shiny and sparkling gold layer on the face which was associated with royalty. The sculpture also had well-curved features of the face which are wide and open eyes, a defined nose, mouth, chin and the ears. The wide-open eyes were believed to show a sense of vitality and alertness to one who has entered upon a new life.

This was not the portrait of the deceased but rather an idealized representation. It was believed that this was a way of expressing the desire to be reborn in the afterlife as a divine being with the skin of gold which was the one believed to be possessed by the gods. The composition of the facial features brings about a more natural and quiet concentration expression.

The artwork also comprises of a perfect body proportion that is embedded with geometrical motifs, lines that were vertical and horizontal. The composure of the mask creates an ambience of royalty that one cannot help showing admiration at it. This is what brings about the serene nature. It also consisted of human figures that have been drawn in the mask. This was believed that once one was reborn in the afterlife, he or she would have those as the servants since the status will change to that of a godly nature. The mix of brown, black, green and red colour brings about the existence of a calm nature and ancient look. The mask had a painting on the wig, and this came into existence because it was easier to paint the cartonnage. This painting on the wig was believed to be crucial in the reproduction of the face and hair to make it easier for the spirits to recognize and return to the body.

The sculpture had been positioned at the centre rather than the normal positioning of the pieces of art in strategic positions. This was so crucial as it caught the attention of the onlookers quickly.  The forehead was attached with a curving that looks like jewellery that works like a talisman. The lighting in the room brought about a mysterious aura, and it was quite easy for someone to note the existence of a peaceful surrounding and a calming effect. The positioning of the sculpture was very crucial as it enabled one to view it from all dimensions.

The  Mummy Mask was introduced during the first intermediate period, that is the c.305 BC and used until the Roman times, which was A.D.100.This mummy mask was designed in such a way that it covers the face and the shoulders of the deceased. This mask played a very significant symbolic role to the Egyptians. They were believed to offer protection magically and also physically. The Mummy Mask signified the elevation of the dead to a higher plane of existence in the life after death. They were used by the body to show in an idealized form that they had triumphed over death. One was believed to acquire the same status as that of the gods as this was actualized by the use of specific colours, especially the golden one and precious materials.

The existence of these sculptures as a form of art in the museums is significant in various ways. Apart from the fact they educate us about ancient history, we also get a closer feeling of attachment to it. The emotions that we experience, the mood around us and the general feeling of touch when we have a physical connection with these sculptures are all ways that show us how history and the present are tied to each other. Thus, this gives us a more substantial reason as to why these pieces of art should be kept well for the sake of the future generation.

Works cited

Museum of Fine Art Houston (2020). The Mummy mask. Retrieved from https://www.mfah.org/exhibitions/